Outdoor Program Center offers July sailing, kayaking courses

Bemidji State University’s Outdoor Program Center has a sailing skills clinic and a sea kayaking course scheduled in early July.

The Department of Campus Recreation also would like to remind the community that the Gillett Recreation-Fitness Center and the Outdoor Program Center Boathouse at Diamond Point Park will be closed on July 4.

Sailing Skills (July 3):
Learn the basic skills to get started on your path to becoming a sailor. This clinic is for all those who have always wanted to sail but never had anyone to take them out and show them the ropes. The course will begin with a talk on small boat safety, and participants will learn the parts of the boat, knots, rigging and capsize procedures. Students will then take to the water in small boats perfect for beginners. Come prepared to swim with secure eyewear and clothes appropriate for the weather. The center will provide wetsuits, paddling jackets and life jackets. Experienced sailors are also welcome to join the course and a boat out on the lake.

Sea Kayaking (July 6):
This introductory lesson is suitable for sea kayaking beginners or for those unfamiliar with self-rescue and capsize-recovery skills. Learn to paddle efficiently, follow a course, brace for stability and learn what to do in the event of a deep-water capsize. The course will also cover clothing and equipment options, float plan, safety skills and an introduction to the eskimo roll. The center will provide life jackets, wetsuits and paddling jackets. Participants should bring swimwear, shoes to get wet, sunglasses, a water bottle or other personal equipment.

Participants in both courses will meet at the BSU boathouse at Diamond Point Park in Bemidji.

Times for the clinics have yet to be finalized; interested participants are encouraged to contact the Outdoor Program Center for additional information. For more information, and to confirm dates and times for all OPC activities, contact the center at (218) 755-2999.

About the Outdoor Program Center
Bemidji State University’s nationally-recognized Outdoor Program Center is part of a diverse and active Department of Campus Recreation. The center is dedicated to providing the university and public with outdoor experiences which allow participants to enjoy the outdoors, explore personal potential, and develop a respect and understanding of the Earth’s natural systems and accompanying responsibilities.

Links
Bemidji State Campus Recreation